Species Conservation

The Pacific Region Fisheries Program supports several aquatic species conservation efforts. Biologists at field stations collect important data and monitoring information on a variety of fish and aquatic species ranging from salmon and trout to Pacific lamprey and freshwater mussels. Our staff also works in collaboration with other programs across the region to address the conservation and recovery needs of this broad range of species. In partnership with others, we are collectively making a difference to conserve and recover species while maintaining the quality of life we enjoy in both rural and urban communities.

Featured Species

Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus) are listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Stream and habitat restoration efforts are particularly important for this threatened species because bull trout are more sensitive to increased water temperatures, poor water quality, and low flow conditions than many other salmonids.Learn More (fact sheet)Featured Project:Restoring Clackamas River bull trout

Pacific Lamprey (Entosphenus tridentatus) populations have substantially declined in recent decades.The primary reasons for the decline of this species are habitat factors such as passage barriers, dewatering, poor water quality, and bad silt conditions. Learn More (fact sheet)

Coastal Cutthroat Trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii) are listed as species of concern under the Endangered Species Act. Forest management and estuary degradation have been identified as principal factors for declines across the range of coastal cutthroat trout. Learn More (website)

Interior Redband Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss spp.), are listed as species of concern in under the Endangered Species Act. Habitat loss, fragmentation of current habitat, isolation of existing populations, and
hybridization with coastal rainbow trout and cutthroat trout are the principal issues
facing inland redband trout.

Freshwater Mussels Seven species of freshwater mussels inhabit the streams and lakes of the Pacific Northwest. A recent status review suggests that fresh water mussel populations are declining due to habitat destruction and loss of host fish species. As filter feeders, freshwater mussels can both improve water quality and be used as indicators of water quality.

Lake Sammamish Kokanee (Oncorhynchus nerka) population numbers have declined rapidly over the past decade. After a 12 month review of a petition to list the Lake Sammamish Kokanee under the Endangered Species Act, in 2011 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined that the population does not meet the criteria of a distinct population segment and is therefore not listable.